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New service from Mozilla wants to protect you from data brokers

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 21:07

Have you ever googled yourself and found a slew of results from "people finder" websites with your personal data? These data brokers often profit from selling your information, which can include everything from your social media profiles to your real-world home address.

Mozilla, the organization behind the popular Firefox web browser, has just launched a new service called Mozilla Monitor that says it will get these data brokers to remove your information. 

SEE ALSO: ChatGPT revealed personal data and verbatim text to researchers

Mozilla offers both a free plan that will scan the web to find where your information is listed, as well as a paid plan that will take the extra step of automatically removing these listings from data broker websites. The paid plan, Mozilla Monitor Plus, costs $13.99 per month, or $8.99 per month if paid annually. This plan also includes continuous monitoring of the web for your information.

Mozilla Monitor is a relaunch of a previous service from Mozilla, formerly known as Firefox Monitor. Originally, the free service just monitored the web to find instances of when your email was involved in a data breach. The focus seemed to be on vulnerability to potential identity theft since such data breaches could leak a person's usernames and passwords as well as credit card or social security numbers. The latest version of this service, Mozilla Monitor, still offers this feature, but now includes data broker monitoring as well.

Data brokering is big business with estimates putting the industry at more than $200 billion in revenue each year — so there's a lot at stake as Mozilla rolls out this feature.

Most people don't realize that they can actually opt-out of being included by data brokers. However, getting your information removed can be a tedious process, involving a separate request to each individual data brokering website. 

There are existing companies that offer removal services similar to Mozilla Monitor, but none are as big or well known as the organization behind Firefox. Perhaps with Mozilla offering such a service, more people will become aware of just how much of their private information is on the internet and for sale.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Move over, Ratatouille: TikTok's newest musical is about a groundhog named Phil

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 19:02

Inspiration is everywhere and this week, folks on TikTok have found it in a rodent. No, not that rodent. This rodent, Punxsutawney Phil — the groundhog who pops his head out every winter to predict whether spring will come sooner or later.

Phil has had the same gig for more than 100 years, even though groundhogs typically only live for about six. To keep the magic alive, the folks over at the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club claim to feed the little guy an "elixir of life" to keep him going. However, the Club does not extend the same courtesy to Phil's wife, Phyllis.

So how do the pressures of eternal life affect Phil and Phyllis's relationship dynamic? That's the question TikTok user @olivesongs11 explores in an original song from Phil's perspective.

The tune finds Phil grappling with his immortality, telling his wife, "You can have the fame, Phyllis. I'd give up all the fame. You can have the overbearing stares, the noisy crowds, the holy shadow, and the shame." But, he warns her, celebrity is more a curse than a blessing. "Don't pretend you want this. Don't be so naive," he sings, "Nothing's supposed to live forever, Phyllis. The burrows be made will eventually fade and I'll be left to sing the same old song."

Posted on Feb. 3, the video has been viewed more than 4 million times and duetted dozens of times by TikTok users adding Phyllis' perspective, the plot of their fictional marital strife thickening with each addition.

As many a commenter has pointed out, the duets are reminiscent of The Last Five Years, a two-person musical about the highs and lows of the relationship between a struggling actress and successful writer whose fame drives a wedge between them. Sound familiar?

In 2021, a community-produced musical adaptation of the Pixar movie Ratatouille raised more than $1 million for charity after its crowd-sourced material gained traction across the platform in 2020. No word yet on whether Phil and Phyllis will get the same treatment, but you can enjoy some of the best takes on the idea below.

The Phyllis perspectives SEE ALSO: How Daniel Mertzlufft helped jumpstart the Ratatouille musical that raised $1 million Add some drums... Plus a mayor and his urchin child SEE ALSO: Winter or spring? Punxsutawney Phil takes over the internet on Groundhog Day And, finally, choose a Playbill
Categories: IT General, Technology

Essential deals to help you host the Big Game like an MVP, from a 4K TV to an air fryer

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 19:02
The best deals on game day hosting essentials at a glance: BEST FOR WATCHING Paramount+ with Showtime Get one free month with code JUNE (save $11.99) Get Deal BEST FOR FOOD PREP Instant Omni 7-in-1 Air Fryer Toaster Oven (19-quart) $129.95 at Amazon (save $70.04) Get Deal BEST FOR CLEANING Shark Matrix RV2300S $299 at Walmart (save $200.99) Get Deal

The grand finale of the NFL season is upon us. If you've been tasked with hosting the watch party, having the right gear can really make a difference in how the day goes — regardless of which team comes out on top.

You don't need to spend a fortune, thankfully, because a lot of the essentials for game day hosting are on sale. We've gathered some major players — from a 4K TV to a blender system — to help you gear up for the big game and host a party your guests will cheer about until next season. And these deals will all arrive in time for Sunday's viewing party.

For watching the gameA 4K TV

The TV is the centerpiece for any football watch party. If you're sporting an old, crappy model and could use an upgrade, there are tons of excellent choices on sale ahead of game day. We particularly like this deal on the LG 65-inch B3 Series OLED TV, which features Dolby Vision and a 120Hz refresh rate — that means less lag and more immersive viewing. The B3 is already LG's most affordable OLED TV, but it's even cheaper at just $1,299.99 at Best Buy as of Feb. 7. That's a $700 discount and matches its Black Friday pricing.

Opens in a new window Credit: LG LG 65-inch B3 Series OLED TV $1,299.99 at Best Buy (save $700) Get Deal The right streaming service

If you don't have cable access, you're going to need a streaming service to watch the game. While you could opt for a live TV cable replacement service like YouTube TV or Fubo, they're a bit on the expensive side. Paramount+, on the other hand, is much more affordable and will be streaming the game live. Even better, you can get it for free if you're new to the service. Use the code JUNE at checkout with the Paramount+ with Showtime plan and you'll get one month for free. After your month is up, you'll owe $11.99 per month. Cancel before the month is up and you'll owe nothing.

Opens in a new window Credit: Paramount Plus Paramount+ with Showtime Get one free month with code JUNE (save $11.99) Get Deal A soundbar to pair with your TV

If your main reason for watching the Big Game is to enjoy the halftime show, you're going to want some decent speakers to hear it. Don't settle for your TV speakers — grab a soundbar instead so you can enjoy Usher singing "Yeah!" and "Love in this Club" in surround sound. The Bose Smart Soundbar 600 features TrueSpace technology and two upward-firing transducers to deliver what it calls "shockingly immersive sound." Plus, it's equipped with Alexa, so you can ask the AI assistant to crank up the tunes during halftime. Better yet, it's on sale for $100 off as of Feb. 7.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose Smart Soundbar 600 $399 at Amazon (save $100) Get Deal For food and drinksA large-capacity cooler

If you told your friends and neighbors to bring their own beverages, you're going to need a spot to keep them cold. This massive 72-quart Igloo Overland Ice Chest should do the trick, as it can hold up to 110 cans. Its extra-thick 1.5-inch foam-insulated walls and lid extend ice retention, while its built-in bottle opener allows for quicker consumption. Usually $130, you can snag it on sale for just $109 at Walmart.

Opens in a new window Credit: Igloo Igloo Overland Ice Chest (72-quart) $109 at Walmart (save $20.99) Get Deal An air fryer

You can cook your apps and snacks the easy way or the hard way. If you prefer the easy way, an air fryer is the way to go. Crispy wings, fries, and whatever else you have in mind can easily be whipped up in this 19-quart Instant Omni 7-in-1 air fryer toaster oven. Besides air frying, it can broil, bake, roast, toast, warm, and act as a convection oven for versatility. At $129.95, it's not its lowest price ever, but it's still a significant $70 discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Instant Instant Omni 7-in-1 Air Fryer Toaster Oven (19-quart) $129.95 at Amazon (save $70.04) Get Deal A smart indoor smoker

Want to splurge and really impress your guests? The new GE Profile Smart Indoor Smoker, which just debuted at CES last month, is on sale for $300 off at Amazon and can give you all the joys of a barbecue on your countertop. It's equipped with six food presets, five adjustable smoke settings, and a built-in temperature probe, and is designed to filter smoke into warm air. Typically $999, you can get it at Amazon for only $699.

Opens in a new window Credit: GE GE Profile Smart Indoor Smoker $699 at Amazon (save $300) Get Deal A blender for mixing drinks and dips

Have frozen cocktails and tasty dips at the ready for your Sunday shenanigans with the help of a good blender. The Ninja BN801 Professional Plus features 1400 peak watts of professional power, five different presets, and a large 72-ounce pitcher for big batches of drinks. It also comes with an 8-cup Precision Processor Bowl for your sauces and dips, plus two single-serve to-go cups. Save $40 at Amazon and grab the whole system for only $179.99 as of Feb. 7.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja BN801 Professional Plus Kitchen System $179.99 at Amazon (save $40) Get Deal For cleaning upA portable carpet and upholstery cleaner

Whether you need to get your kid's latest spill out of your couch before you have company or need to wash out your friend's margarita stain after the Big Game, the Bissell Little Green is a solid cleaning companion. The beloved tool comes with a self-cleaning hose tool and a spraying crevice tool to make removing tough spots and stains from carpets, upholstery, and more a breeze. Use the on-page coupon to snag it for just under $100 at Amazon as of Feb. 7. That's a savings of about 20%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bissell Bissell Little Green $99.59 at Amazon (save $24 with on-page coupon) Get Deal A self-emptying robot vacuum

Make clean-up easier on yourself before and after the Big Game by grabbing a self-emptying robot vacuum. The Shark Matrix RV2300S is on sale at Walmart as of Feb. 7 for only $299 — that's 40% off. It features home mapping and virtual boundaries guided by 360-degree LiDAR, a crosshatch-pattern cleaning style for accuracy, a 120-minute battery life, and a self-emptying dock that holds up to 30 days' worth of debris.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark Matrix RV2300S $299 at Walmart (save $200.99) Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

Get 20% off all Ava sex toys at Amazon for Valentine's Day

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 18:31

With Valentine's Day coming up, there's no better time to invest in pleasure. From Feb. 7 through Feb. 15, sex toy brand Ava is offering 20% off its entire Amazon storefront.

Ava Sex Toy Sale Best Ava sex toy deal overall Ava Vivv $17.95 at Amazon (save $12) Get Deal Best dual-function sex toy deal Ava Lolli $24.47 at Amazon (save $5.52) Get Deal Best large wand sex toy deal Ava Evo $26.23 at Amazon (save $3.76) Get Deal

It's always important to take time out for pleasure, whether that means spending some solo time or experiencing it with a partner. Valentine's Day is right around the corner, and sex toy brand Ava, formerly known as Luna, wants to help you tap into that feeling in time for the most romantic holiday of the year.

As of Feb. 7, Ava is offering 20% off its entire Amazon storefront — that means all of its available sex toys — so you can save some cash when grabbing a new vibrator, clitoral stimulator, or whatever makes you tick. That means you can rack up on some great picks, including one of our favorites, the Ava Vivv wand, and much more, for less.

Take advantage of this sexy sale before it ends on Feb. 15, and grab something for you or your partner (or partners).

Best Ava sex toy deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Ava Vivv $17.95 at Amazon (save $12) Get Deal

Mashable Associate Editor Anna Iovine named the Ava Vivv the "best vibrator under $30," especially for new vibrator users. It's also a great pick for experienced buyers looking for a cheaper wand to add to their collection. It's light but surprisingly powerful, and it can use "intuitive memory" to pick up where you left off after your previous session. It's an intelligent and inexpensive option that should suit most users just fine.

Best dual-function sex toy deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Ava Lolli $24.47 at Amazon (save $5.52) Get Deal

The Ava Lolli is a dual-function vibrator that's a massager with a suction option for clitoral stimulation. It offers a variety of gentle pulses that you can ease in with and deep, satisfying vibrations to finish off, plus other patterns you can play with to see what works best for you. It has a sleek, contoured head that you can bend up to 50 degrees, and it's super quiet at just 45 decibels. It might be quieter than you, which is always a plus when you want to keep things a bit more discreet. Powerful and pleasurable, you'll want this bad boy at your side.

Best large wand sex toy deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Ava Evo $26.23 at Amazon (save $3.76) Get Deal

The Ava Evo massage wand goes beyond your everyday vibrator and adds a bit of texture to your massage. It has 20 different patterns with eight different intensities and uses "Intuitive Memory" tech that can recall your favorites and how often you use them. It'll also last for a whopping six hours, so if you or your partner want to go long, you've got the option to do so.

Other Ava sex toy deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

NASA craft snaps extraordinarily close images of volcano-covered world

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 18:26

Behold the volcano-blanketed moon, Io.

After swooping by Jupiter's tortured moon on Feb. 3, NASA's Juno spacecraft beamed back some of the closest-ever images of this unique world. The agency's deep space probe came within just 930 miles (1,500 kilometers) of Io, following a similar pass just over a month ago. Planetary scientists hope these much-anticipated flybys will answer fundamental questions about the mysterious, lava-spewing moon.

"The twin flybys are designed to provide new insight into how Io’s volcanic engine works and whether a global magma ocean exists under Io’s rocky, mountainous surface terrain," mission operators wrote after the first images came back.

SEE ALSO: Before its demise, NASA's Mars helicopter captured a glorious aerial view

Io contains hundreds of volcanoes, many of which are active and hot enough for Juno to detect their heat on the moon's surface. Some of the prominent mound-like volcanoes are easily visible in the images below, as are darker areas where lava may have somewhat recently flowed.

These impressive views are processed (removing noise and distortion, etc.) by both professional and amateur image processors, some of whom work for NASA or related space research programs. These are the closest views of Io captured in over two decades. (More images will be added as they become available.)

Tweet may have been deleted The Feb. 3 Io flyby shows a moon teeming with volcanoes. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech / SwRI / MSSS Two volcanic plumes rising from Io. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech / SwRI / MSSS / AndreaLuck / CC BY 3.0 Unported Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted

Io is blanketed in erupting volcanoes because it's relentlessly locked in a tug-of-war between nearby objects, including the colossal Jupiter. "Not only is the biggest planet in the solar system forever pulling at it gravitationally, but so are Io’s Galilean siblings — Europa and the biggest moon in the solar system, Ganymede," NASA explained in a statement. "The result is that Io is continuously stretched and squeezed, actions linked to the creation of the lava seen erupting from its many volcanoes."

In recent months, the Juno craft has spotted clear signs of activity on Io, including a hazy plume it observed over the volcano Prometheus. NASA's Galileo mission also captured a plume above these fields of lava in the year 2000.

"It is the purest form of discovery."

Planetary scientists will pour over these latest images in the coming weeks, months, and years. The new views and data could reveal whether or not a lava ocean sloshes beneath Io's hardened lava crust.

"It is the purest form of discovery," Ashley Davies, a planetary scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory who researches Io, told Mashable in November 2023. "We're seeing things that we have never seen before."

This story was updated with more new images of the Jovian moon Io.

Featured Video For You NASA spacecraft gets extremely close to volcanic world, snaps footage
Categories: IT General, Technology

Disney+ is now restricting password sharing in the U.S.

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 18:18

Netflix has always been a trendsetter in the online streaming arena, but this latest trend is the worst one yet.

Almost a year after Netflix started cracking down on password sharing in the U.S., Disney+ (Disney Plus) is set to do the same, per The Verge. Subscribers expect to receive an email with more information about the change, which restricts Disney+ usage to devices in the home of the person who pays the monthly bill. This move was first announced last August and then implemented in Canada by September.

SEE ALSO: How to watch Disney's 'Wish' at home and online

Per the Verge, these new rules are already in place for new subscribers, but existing Disney+ customers have until March 14 to get their affairs in order.

As for how one would get their affairs in order to prepare for this, that's not entirely clear. The Disney+ help site offers only the following on how account sharing works now:

You may not share your subscription outside of your household. "Household" means the collection of devices associated with your primary personal residence that are used by the individuals who reside therein.

Unlike Netflix, there doesn't appear to be a way to pay extra to add users from outside the household. It's possible that could exist in the future, but at present, the Disney+ pricing tiers page doesn't address that whatsoever.

It seems like, for now, the best way to circumvent these rules is to just pony up for your own account. Bummer.

Categories: IT General, Technology

OpenAI is adding watermarks to ChatGPT images created with DALL-E 3

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 17:58

Images created with DALL-E 3 on ChatGPT and the OpenAI API will now have watermarks.

On Tuesday, the company shared the announcement in a post on X, saying images "now include metadata using C2PA specifications."

Tweet may have been deleted

C2PA, which stands for Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity, is a technical standard used by Adobe, Microsoft, BBC, and other companies and publishers to address the prevalence of deepfakes and misinformation "by certifying the source and history (or provenance) of media content," as explained on the C2PA site.

SEE ALSO: Bard creates Taylor Swift image despite Google implying it won't

Images generated on ChatGPT and the OpenAI API will contain metadata including the source of the AI tool and the date it was generated. Metadata can be viewed by uploading the image to sites like Content Credentials. C2PA metadata adds a small increase in file size, but OpenAI says it will not affect the quality of the image.

With AI image generating tools like DALL-E 3, Midjourney, Bard, and Copilot, it's easier than ever to create deepfakes, proliferate misleading information, and publish images that infringe on copyrighted works. Recently, pornographic deepfakes of Taylor Swift went viral, underscoring the need for verifying images and sufficient guardrails to prevent such harms — especially involving public figures. An executive order from President Biden announced in Oct. 2023 specifically mandated the enforcement of labeling AI-generated content as such. Guidance for watermarking content is being carried out by the Department of Commerce, which has also been tasked with requiring makers of AI foundations models to inform the government about their development.

Although watermarking images is a step in the right direction towards verifying AI-generated images, it isn't foolproof since metadata can be easily removed. "For example, most social media platforms today remove metadata from uploaded images, and actions like taking a screenshot can also remove it," said the OpenAI policy page detailing the C2PA standard. "Therefore, an image lacking this metadata may or may not have been generated with ChatGPT or our API."

The OpenAI policy page also specifies that C2PA embedded watermarks are only applied to image generation, not voice or text generation created through ChatGPT or the OpenAI API.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Apple's MagSafe Duo charger is on sale for a new record-low price, saving you $50

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 17:23

SAVE $49.01: The Apple MagSafe Duo charger is on sale for $79.99 at Woot as of Feb. 7. That's 38% off its $129 MSRP and its lowest price ever.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MagSafe Duo charger $79.99 at Woot (save $49.01) Get Deal

Eons ago (back in 2020), when Apple first introduced its MagSafe Duo 2-in-1 wireless charger, Mashable recommended that you pass on it for one key reason: "At $129, it's already pretty pricey," wrote tech and games reporter Alex Perry, "and Bloomberg's Mark Gurman noted that you need to supply your own power adapter, with Apple's 30W USB-C adapter delivering a total of 'up to' 14W wireless charging on MagSafe Duo for an extra $50." It was basically a $180 accessory.

Cut to now: The Amazon-owned deals site Woot has the MagSafe Duo on sale for just $79.99 (as of Feb. 7), taking $49.01 off its $129 sticker price. Not only is that discount its biggest yet, but it effectively nullifies the cost of an extra $50 adapter. We now finally recommend buying it.

SEE ALSO: Apple is still working on a foldable iPhone, report says

The fine print here (and the presumed reason why it's so cheap) is that Apple quietly discontinued the MagSafe Duo back in fall 2023, right after announcing the iPhone 15 line. This is probably because the MagSafe Duo has a Lightning port, per 9to5Mac, whereas Apple's latest smartphones feature USB-C ports. That said, the MagSafe Duo should still work with the iPhone 15 as well as older models (including the iPhone 12, 13, and 14), according to an Apple Support page dated Dec. 27, 2023.

As a quick refresher, the MagSafe Duo is a foldable wireless charging mat that lets you wirelessly juice up two devices at the same time: It works with recent iPhones, all Apple Watches, wireless charging cases for AirPods, Apple's MagSafe accessories, and other Qi-certified devices. Its previous record-low price was $94.99, which it hit back in September 2023.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Homeland Security is hiring AI experts

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 16:42

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is seeking artificial intelligence experts to help harness AI to advance its mission.

These recruitment efforts come a day after House Republicans narrowly failed to impeach Alejandro Mayorkas, the secretary of Homeland Security, claiming he refused to enforce immigration law and had therefore "breached the public trust". This is being seen by the GOP as a failure to deliver on a key promise to their key voters.

This same day, Mayorkas, along with Eric Hysen, DHS chief information officer, ventured to Silicon Valley to recruit AI experts for the department. Hysen also serves as Homeland Security's chief artificial intelligence officer.

"We want to lead the federal government in harnessing AI to advance our mission," Mayorkas said at the event in Mountain View, California, adding that using AI ethically and responsibly is paramount. "It is incredibly important that we build confidence in how we are using AI."

SEE ALSO: ChatGPT is writing legislation now

The hires will be known as the AI Corps, modeled after the U.S. Digital Service, a technology unit housed within the Executive Office of the President (EOP).

The agency is looking to recruit 50 employees in this space over the next year. Mayorkas emphasized at the event that they are open to remote employees, a sentiment reiterated on a DHS hiring page.

In an official press release, Mayorkas says that the AI Corps will work "on a variety projects."

"The DHS AI Corps will enable the Department of Homeland Security to keep up with the pace of innovation as we enhance our work combating fentanyl traffickers, rescuing victims of child sexual exploitation, countering cyberattacks, assessing disaster damage, and much more," reads the statement.

The key areas and roles that AI will likely be utilized by Homeland Security were further listed on the official hiring page:

  • Enhance border security

  • Make air travel easier and safer

  • Combat online child exploitation

  • Enhance customer service

  • Support disaster survivors

  • Defend against cyber threats

  • Lead AI research, development, and deployment

  • Combat the malicious use of AI

Tweet may have been deleted

For each mission, different AI-based skills are in demand, including machine vision, facial comparison, facial recognition, natural language processing, and research and development. Haysen added in a statement that the AI team will be deployed "to solve problems and modernize the delivery of services to the public."

SEE ALSO: New York City's AI plan: These are the key takeaways

"We are recruiting faster than ever because the need is urgent," he said.

At the event, Mayorkas acknowledged that AI is a polarizing matter within politics. However, he praised the potential of AI, saying, "There is an underlying impatience on my part to demonstrate [that the] government can do everything the private sector can."

Government and legal bodies are grappling with the proliferation of AI, whether that comes to tackling an epidemic of deepfakes or even the case that saw legislation written by ChatGPT was enacted by a country's lawmakers. Cities like New York have, too, announced that their own plans for advancing AI, signaling newfound territory for authorities to consider.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Apple is working on a foldable clamshell iPhone, report says

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 16:14

Still dreaming of a foldable iPhone? We've got good news and bad news for you.

According to a new report by The Information (via 9to5Mac), Apple is actively developing several foldable devices, and has at least two prototypes of clamshell folding models.

The bad news: The foldable iPhone appears to be in early development, and it may not launch very soon. Worse news: Apple still seems to be hitting all the old roadblocks that cause the company to halt the foldable phone development back in 2020.

According to the report, Apple wanted this phone to be really thin when unfolded, about half the thickness of the current phone models, and the company also looked into adding an outward-facing display. But it appears the company's designers and engineers were unable to achieve these goals. They're also working on a way for the phone's display to be fully flat when unfolded, but there's no word on whether they've achieved this, either.

All of this means that the foldable iPhone likely isn't coming this year or the next. Maybe 2026 is the year?

SEE ALSO: 7 things you shouldn't do while wearing Apple Vision Pro

Apple is also reportedly working on a larger device, a foldable iPad if you will. The report says that this device would have an 8-inch, inward folding display; so you'd get something that's as large as an iPad mini when folded, and close to the larger iPad Pro when unfolded. Such a device might actually be closer to production than the iPhone, as Apple's standards regarding thickness may not be as strict when it comes to a larger, tablet-like device.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Martin Scorsese goes full alien invasion in his Squarespace Super Bowl commercial

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 16:08

Martin Scorsese's first-ever alien movie is here — and it's a Super Bowl commercial for Squarespace.

The ad, teased in a funny short film starring Scorsese and his daughter Francesca Scorsese, reveals that aliens have finally arrived on Earth. The only problem? Humans are too busy staring at our phones to look up and take in the news!

Frustrated, the aliens adapt, building a website that advertises their arrival to the world's unsuspecting humans. The plan works, and humanity finally greets its new visitors in their glorious flying saucers. Stick around to the end to see a Scorsese cameo, where he complains about — what else? — New York City traffic.

SEE ALSO: How to stream Super Bowl LVIII for free, without cable
Categories: IT General, Technology

Lupita Nyong'o braves the alien apocalypse in 'A Quiet Place: Day One' trailer

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 15:54

A Quiet Place introduced us to a world where making sound was a death sentence. In the upcoming A Quiet Place: Day One, we get to see how that apocalyptic future came to be. For this prequel, director Michael Sarnoski takes the reins from A Quiet Place and A Quiet Place Part II director John Krasinski, who still helped with Day One's story.

Based on the film's first trailer, the invasion of A Quiet Place's sound-sensitive aliens comes seemingly out of nowhere. Everything is business as usual on the streets of New York City until meteor fragments rain from the sky, bringing hostile life forms with them. In the fallout, we follow a crew of survivors — played by Lupita Nyong'o, carrying a very brave cat; Joseph Quinn, Stranger Things' own Eddie Munson; and Djimon Hounsou, reprising his role from A Quiet Place Part II — as they brave abandoned subway tunnels and collapsing skyscrapers. Here's hoping they're quiet enough to make it out of New York City alive.

A Quiet Place: Day One opens in theaters June 28.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Ava Vivv wand is the best vibrator under $30

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 15:42

This story has been updated to reflect the Luna Massage Wand's rebrand to Ava Vivv.

I never thought I'd love a vibrator I could buy on Amazon, but the Ava Vivv wand (formerly Luna Massage Wand) has proven me wrong. I shouldn't have been too surprised, though: At the time of writing, the wand has more than 44,000 reviews, with 70 percent being five-star endorsements. 

Still, I was skeptical when I received my purple wand in the mail. As it's cute and lightweight, I assumed it wouldn't pack too much of a punch — but I happily stand corrected. The Ava Vivv is an inexpensive, easily-accessible vibrator that's perfect for new and experienced users alike. 

Deets on the Ava Vivv wand

Before the rebrand to Ava, the vibrator's price depended on which color you chose (there used to be nine options). Now, there are fewer colors and they all sit at $29.95 — though, they're often on sale for even less. The Vivv wand is cheaper than most of the options Mashable named best budget sex toys under $50.

Ava's wand is only sold on Amazon as of this publication, and is available for Prime delivery. It's important to note, however, that not all sex toys on the site are alike. Illegitimate sex toys have been found on Amazon, so be mindful if you're buying another brand.

The wand comes in a sleek box, with a travel pouch as well as a small sheet with information on how to work and care for the vibe. It's USB chargeable and only needs an hour to reach a full charge for 1.5 hours of battery life. 

Further, the vibe is made of medical-grade silicone and is 100 percent waterproof; this means you're free to wash the toy or use it in the shower without worry, but don't submerge it in water or take it in the bath with you.

What struck me beyond the wide color choice and cheap pricing is how light the toy is. At 4.7 ounces, it weighs less than an iPhone 12. It's also smaller than the other wand vibrators in my collection at less than eight inches tall (while the others can tower over it at over a foot long). 

As such, the head of the wand is also smaller than that of other wand vibes like the Hitachi. This isn't a setback at all, but something to keep in mind especially if you use your wand with a partner. I'd say, given that the Vivv's head is less than two inches wide, this wand is better used solo. But feel free to prove me wrong!

The Ava Vivv experience

The Ava Vivv is perfect for people who love choice. The wand boasts eight intensities and an impressive 20 vibrating patterns. Unfortunately there's no breakdown online or in the given materials that explains all these, but there's an array of pulse patterns from short bursts to long, torturous (in a good way) pauses. Another setting is the classic steady vibration wands are known for.

For such a small toy, the Ava Vivv is powerful. At full charge, the lowest setting is stronger than the highest on some of my older or cheap vibrators. The highest can probably take you into another dimension within seconds if you'd like. Because the vibrations are so intense, I recommend experimenting with the pulse patterns; they're perfect for edging (almost reaching climax, then pulling back) and thus prolonging your session. Trust me, you'll want to.

Perhaps my favorite part about the wand even beyond the intensities and patterns is the wand's "intuitive memory." Instead of reverting to a starting pattern, Ava Vivv picks up where you left off when you turn it back on. Not only that, but I found that the wand recognized the patterns I played with most often and I didn't need to cycle through all 20 to find them. 

The neck of the vibrator is also flexible, so the toy contorts to your movements.

Ava Vivv has a smaller head than larger wands like the Hitachi. Credit: Ava Is the Ava Vivv worth it?

Despite all its pros, no toy is perfect. The box claims the wand is silent and portable. While the lowest intensity is a low hum, the vibrator still makes noise. 

As for portable, the wand is compact and comes with a travel bag…but doesn't appear to have a travel lock. A travel setting on a sex toy allows users to lock the toy so it doesn't, say, accidentally go off at airport security. This lack isn't the worst thing in the world, but if you want to travel with the Ava Vivv wand (and why wouldn't you), I'd recommend tossing it in a backpack or another piece of luggage you'll have on you in case it goes off.

Still, none of these small drawbacks deter my enjoyment of the wand — and by no stretch of the imagination make the toy not worth purchasing. The only reason I harp on the travel lock is because I wish it had one! I'd love to jet off with the wand, being so small yet mighty.

The Ava Vivv wand is the best toy I've tried at this low price point, and I'm happy it's so accessible for folks who want to try a wand but can't spend upwards of $100 on one. If appropriate, this can also make a great gift due to its affordability and fast shipping.

At such a bang for your buck, Ava Vivv is worth a try whether you're new to wand vibrators or already know you love them.

Categories: IT General, Technology

'Love Lies Bleeding' trailer: Kristen Stewart falls for '80s bodybuilder Katy O’Brian in romantic thriller

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 15:00

A new trailer for A24's retro romantic thriller Love Lies Bleeding is here, teasing a cute gym romance about masc women macking on each other. Unfortunately, it all seems doomed to go inevitably, horribly wrong.

Set in the '80s, Love Lies Bleeding follows the budding relationship between introverted gym manager Lou (Kristen Stewart) and impressively muscular amateur bodybuilder Jackie (Katy O'Brian). The course of true love never did run smooth though, and in this case is met with the sizeable obstacle of Lou's father Lou Sr. (Ed Harris), a dangerous criminal who has caught the FBI's attention.

It's only a matter of time before things turn bloody, but here's hoping it somehow works out for the couple.

How to watch: Love Lies Bleeding arrives in theatres Mar. 8.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT's The Mini crossword answers for February 7

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 14:07

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for February 7 SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Here's the answer and hints for February 7

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024:

AcrossAmorphous shape
  • The answer is blob.

Ingredient in bibimbap and congee
  • The answer is rice.

Major work of fiction
  • The answer is novel.

Furniture chain with a blue-and-yellow logo
  • The answer is Ikea.

"Feel the ___" (slogan for Sanders' 2016 campaign)
  • The answer is Bern.

DownAll out of money
  • The answer is broke.

It helps detoxify blood
  • The answer is liver.

Subject of David Attenborough's "Blue Planet" series
  • The answer is ocean.

___ Air, neighborhood in Los Angeles
  • The answer is Bel.

Pen tip
  • The answer is nib.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Porsche refreshes the Taycan with big range and power upgrade

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 13:03

Porsche was one of the first traditional sports car manufacturers to jump on the EV bandwagon with its Taycan, which was launched in 2019. The original Taycan was a good looking car with lots of power, though still behind far cheaper rivals such as Tesla Model 3 in terms of range and even acceleration unless you went for the priciest, Turbo S model.

With a refreshed version of the Taycan for 2025, Porsche aims to fix all that in a big way.

On the outside, the new Taycan is quite similar to its predecessor, though it has slightly upgraded, high-res LED Matrix headlights, as well as refreshed taillights.

The differences aren't huge, but the taillight and the headlights have been redesigned. Credit: Porsche

But the Taycan delivers when it comes to power and range. Porsche says the car has a new powertrain with a new rear-axle motor that delivers up to 80 kW more power than the earlier variant on all models. The rear-wheel drive Taycan goes from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds (0.6 seconds quicker than before), while the Taycan Turbo S achieves the same feat in 2.3 seconds, which makes it the "quickest production car Porsche has ever offered to date."

There's also a boost function which gives your Taycan additional power for 10 seconds, though just how much power you get depends on the model. Porsche says that the base Taycan gets 60 kW extra power, while the top-tier Turbo S gets an additional 140kW when using Launch Control, which gives it a maximum output of 700kW or 938hp. According to the company, that makes it the "most powerful production Porsche" ever released.

The Cross Turismo variant will arrive this fall. Credit: Porsche

Perhaps most importantly, the battery on the Taycan has been increased (with the Performance Battery Plus package) from 93 kWh to 105 kWh. According to Porsche, the Taycan now has up to 587 kilometers (364 miles) of range, as measured during a recent test in California. Charging is faster, too; under ideal conditions, owners will be able to charge their Taycans at up to 320 kW at 800-volt DC charging stations.

Additionally, Porsche now offers a 150 kW DC/DC convertor which should optimize charging speeds on 400-volt networks. All in all, Porsche says charging from 10 to 80 percent should take just 18 minutes under ideal conditions. Finally, recuperation capacity during deceleration has gone up from 290 to 400 kW, a 30 percent increase, which should further help owners squeeze a bit more range out of the Taycan.

Apple CarPlay has been more deeply integrated into the car's displays and functions, Porsche says. Credit: Porsche

On the inside, you'll still find lots of screens, but Porsche says it has optimized the user interface and added a new control level behind the steering wheel, allowing for easier control of driver assistance systems.

Other tidbits of note include improved thermal management, better CarPlay integration, a new active chassis with adaptive air suspension coming as standard, more design and customization options, and a longer list of standard improvement, which now includes stuff like Lane Change Assist, ambient lighting, wireless charging tray for phones, and electrically folding mirrors.

SEE ALSO: Porsche's fancy EV charging lounge has snacks and a smart mirror for workouts

Pricing starts at $99,400 for the entry-level model, and goes up to $211,700 if you choose the Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo variant. The 2025 Taycan sedan and Cross Turismo can be ordered now, with deliveries starting this summer for the sedan and in the fall for the Cross Turismo.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Amazon is testing new driver safety features following shootings

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 12:03

Amazon Flex is piloting new safety features for its drivers, according to a report from The Information.

This follows a series of incidents in which Flex drivers, who use their own cars for deliveries, have reportedly been met with violence or threat by residents: since 2022, five Flex drivers have been shot in four different incidents and five others said they have had guns drawn on them. In many of these incidents, home owners were reported to have mistaken delivery drivers for intruders due to their cars being unmarked.

Amazon is now implementing measures to prevent this, including a feature in its app that would display a Flex driver's name and photograph to customers awaiting delivery. At this time, the company does not provide customers with any information about who is delivering their packages.

In addition, a select group of Flex drivers is being given Amazon-branded merchandise to display on their cars, such as magnets and lights. These will be handed out to drivers beginning this month. Amazon is also working on a text feature automatically alerting customers when a delivery is about to be made. Drivers currently have the option of independently texting customers themselves.

SEE ALSO: John Oliver slams Amazon over its treatment of delivery drivers

Launched in 2015, Flex is a program where independent contractors can sign up to make Amazon deliveries in their own vehicles. Drivers can work according to their own schedules and availability, with Amazon pitching the program as a side hustle and a way to earn extra money: "Choose the blocks that fit your schedule, then get back to living your life," reads the website. The company says that most of their gig drivers earn between $18 to $25 per hour for their deliveries.

When reached for comment by Mashable, Amazon pointed us to the safety section for Flex. Amazon's current safety recommendations for Flex drivers include wearing a high visibility safety vest, and slip-resistant, closed-heel, and closed-toe shoes. The company also offers free Amazon-branded vests for drivers at their delivery stations.

Back in 2019, Amazon implemented facial recognition via selfies to verify the identities of Flex drivers, as a means to protect customers, reduce fraud, and guarantee that only people authorized to deliver packages were able to do so. The new pilot features are more geared towards protecting drivers. Amazon spokesperson Maya Vautier told The Information that the measures are part of the company's "ongoing comprehensive safety efforts."

"We'll keep listening to Amazon Flex delivery partners, inventing on their behalf," said Vautier, "and piloting new products and services to help improve their experience."

Categories: IT General, Technology

Yes, 'The Last of Us Part II Remastered' is worth it: 3 convincing reasons why

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 12:00

If you count The Last of Us Part II Remastered to the list, this marks the fifth different remake or remaster in Naughty Dog's The Last of Us franchise. Oddly, the studio decided to drop a remaster for its critically acclaimed sequel nearly three years after its initial 2020 release.

However, this isn't to say Part II Remastered isn't worth a buy.

In fact, after having spent some time with the game, you should know that the improved graphics are just the cherry on top of an excellent remaster that's locked and loaded with extra features and game modes. It also doesn't hurt that if you purchased Part II for the PS4 in 2020, you can grab the remaster for just $10 (as opposed to the full price of $49.99).

Here at Mashable, we believe that Part II Remastered is the definitive way to play Part II, and if you're a fan of the game, story, and cast of characters, you won't be disappointed by this remaster. If you need more convincing, we broke down experience with some of the new features and extras added by the developers.

1. The Last of Us Rougelike Violence begets violence or whatever the saying is. Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

"No Return" is the headline feature of the remastered version of Part II. It's a combat-focused roguelike mode that sees players in randomly generated encounters to get as far as they can without dying. Throughout each run, players can unlock new gear, weapons, upgrades, and additional characters to play with in future runs.

It's a different flavor for the game, specifically designed for those who enjoyed the combat mechanics of Part II. Having played through the story of Part II a couple of times, I can say the combat is not for the faint of heart. It's excruciatingly and unflinchingly graphic to the point, where, throughout my playthroughs of the campaign I've had to stop and take breaks cause the constant agonizing screaming of the NPCs after you kill a comrade or blow a leg off was uncomfortable.

That's kind of the point though, as one of the narrative throughlines of the campaign is the destructive nature of revenge and how it perpetuates a cycle of violence. This, and I'm not the first to point this out, makes it strange that the most marketed feature of Part II Remaster is a game mode that is nothing but a mindless cycle of violence—something that stands at odds with the story the developers were trying to tell.

However, if you're looking for a way to play the game and maximize the potential and efficiency of its combat mechanics, you'd enjoy "No Return." There's no story here to get in the way of all the fighting, with "No Return" offering several different combat scenarios like fighting off waves of enemies or timed-survival trials. There's even a heist scenario that prompts you to break into guarded safes.

If you like the grim combat of Part II, then the remaster is worth it for this alone. But there are other modes for the less violence-inclined TLOU enjoyers.

2. Guitar-free play Honestly the best addition to the game. Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

Some would call this icing on the cake for players, but let's be honest, this is the main attraction. If you're unfamiliar, there are a few sections within the campaign of Part II that let you play the guitar using the DualShock controller's touchpad to strum the guitar and the bumpers to change the chords. They're neat interactive sections that have been let loose for players in the remaster, so you can skip all the bleak and depressing story beats and get to the real gameplay.

You can swap between several characters and even play the banjo. Additionally, Naughty Dog added the option to play as series composer Gustavo Santaolalla.

Tweet may have been deleted 3. Lost Levels Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

One thing that buying DVDs has over video games is the inclusion of behind-the-scenes featurettes and director's commentary. It's rare in the gaming space, which is known for its secretive development cycles, so it was a surprise to see just how much BTS content is available for players who purchase Part II Remastered.

The meat of the BTS content is the lost levels — three cut sections of gameplay from the original story all in various states of completion, complete with an intro by director Neil Druckmann before each level and developer commentary throughout. Players can walk through these levels, although they are missing animations and have close to no voice acting.

As explained by the devs, a lot of the cuts had to do with pacing issues. One level involves a leisurely trek through Jackson, Wyoming, the settlement Ellie and Joel reside in at the start of the game. Another is an additional sewer section during the Seattle Day Two portion of the game. The last follows Ellie as she hunts a boar near– an endeavor that triggers her PTSD.

Players can trigger the developer's commentary that explains the various minutiae behind object placement, story beats, and why every little thing was either cut or kept. It's a captivating addition that delves into what it's like to develop a game of this caliber and a welcome one for any hardcore fans of the franchise.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Watch the exhilarating 11-minute demo of the 'Final Fantasy VII Rebirth' remake

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 11:40

The second story in the Final Fantasy VII Remake series is almost here, with Rebirth set to release on Feb. 29 — but you can watch an exhilarating 11-minute demo of the RPG already.

In the video above, released Tuesday, you'll join up with Cloud and the gang through all those stunning regions — in Grasslands south of Midgar, through the Junon metropolis, the resort town of Costa del Sol, the glitzy Gold Saucer, and more. You'll get a good look at the gameplay, characters, abilities, combat, and party dynamics, and the developer says it's "fleshed out some of the minigames".

Plus, you'll get to peek at Rebirth's elevated, PS5-ready graphics and visual modes, as well as a listen at the newly recorded music for the game. There's a bigger preview over at IGN if you're keen for more.

Haven't played the first Final Fantasy VII Remake? Check out Mashable's review.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Netflix's 'The Signal' trailer teases a missing astronaut and a strange message

Mashable - Wed, 02/07/2024 - 11:37

Space intersects with family drama in Netflix's The Signal, a four-part mystery about a vanished astronaut.

After Paula (Peri Baumeister) disappears during a space mission, her husband Sven (Florian David Fitz) must try to get to the bottom of what's happened while navigating strange signals and a fractured home life.

The series was written by Fitz with Nadine Gottmann, and Kim Zimmermann, and directed by Sebastian Hilger and Philipp Leinemann.

Looks intriguing.

How to watch: The Signal is streaming on Netflix from March 7.

Categories: IT General, Technology
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